Broncos vs. Riley Moss: Trade Talk Heats Up Before 2026

The Denver Broncos are sitting on one of the NFL’s stingier pass defenses, anchored by cornerback Riley Moss. Moss, a 2023 third‑round pick, started every game in 2025 and finished the season with a league‑leading 19 pass breakups, matching Carolina Panthers corner Michael Jackson. He also topped the league in defensive pass‑interference calls, a statistic that has made some fans label him a liability despite his play.

Moss will hit free agency after the 2025 campaign, and the uncertainty around his next contract has sparked a fresh round of trade speculation. Bleacher Report’s Moe Moton argues that Denver should consider moving Moss before the season kicks off, especially if the team is unwilling to commit to a long‑term deal. He points to the presence of first‑round cornerback Jahdae Barron, who could become the starter if Moss is dealt for a day‑two pick in the 2027 draft.

Moss’s Impact and the DPI Debate

Despite the criticism over his penalty count, Moss draws a significant number of defensive looks because of the elite play of his teammate Pat Surtain II. Opponents target the opposite side of the field, leaving Moss to face fewer one‑on‑one challenges. His 17‑game start streak demonstrates that he remains a key piece of Denver’s defensive scheme.

The league‑leading DPI tally has added fuel to the debate over whether Moss is a net positive for the Broncos. Teams looking for a boundary defender might be intrigued by his coverage skills, even if they are wary of the penalty flag. The Broncos will have to weigh the risk of giving up assets against the potential reward of a quality defensive back.

Why a Trade Might Make Sense

Moe Moton’s suggestion hinges on two factors: Barron’s upside and the 2027 draft’s depth at cornerback. If Denver wants to accelerate Barron’s development, swapping Moss for a mid‑round pick could provide immediate capital. The move would also preserve salary‑cap flexibility heading into the next season.

The situation echoes Denver’s handling of Ja’Quan McMillian in the previous offseason, when the team opted to keep the veteran cornerback despite having drafted Barron. That decision left McMillian on the trade block, illustrating the franchise’s willingness to re‑evaluate its secondary each year. A similar path for Moss could reshape the roster’s balance.

Looking Ahead

Broncos brass are likely to monitor both Moss and Barron’s performance in training camp and the preseason before deciding on a contract extension or a trade. The best move may be to retain the current secondary, but the allure of a complementary day‑two pick could sway the front office. Fans should keep an eye on roster moves, as the next few weeks could determine whether Riley Moss stays in Denver or heads elsewhere.